When one has a number of missing or broken teeth, prosthodontists can use dental bridges to fill the gap. These consist of false teeth (pontics) that are held in place by neighboring teeth or crowns. Dental bridges can be used in place of dental implants in certain cases.
Dental Bridge Procedure
This is a two-appointment procedure – the first appointment consists of preparation and temporary replacement while the second appointment consists of permanent bridge placement.
First Appointment: Preparation and Temporary Replacement
During the first appointment, a local anesthetic is administered, and the patient's teeth are shaped. Then, impressions of the shaped teeth are taken so that the dental bridge can be constructed. In the meantime, patients are fitted with a temporary bridge. It is important to note that if dental implants are required, they will be taken care of at this stage.
Second Appointment: Permanent Bridge Replacement
In the second appointment, the temporary bridge is removed and replaced with the permanent bridge. This procedure also takes place after the administration of local anesthesia. Prosthodontists use dental cement to secure the permanent dental bridge in place.
Dental Bridge Procedure Aftercare
Dental bridges can last for 5 to 7 years. However, with excellent care, they have been known to last for 10 years or more.
Diet Considerations
Before the permanent bridge placement, it is important to avoid hard food like nuts and chewy food like gum and sticky candy. After permanent bridge placement, follow these rules for at least 24 hours before returning to your normal diet.
Oral Hygiene
It's important to brush twice a day and floss daily to take care of your dental bridge. Good oral hygiene also helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease. It is especially important to floss between the pontic and gums to prevent plaque buildup.
At Bay Lakes Center for Complex Dentistry, Dr. Lasnoski and Dr. Hallas can provide you with additional resources, such as special floss that allows you to floss between your gum and dental bridge or water flossers. If you have additional questions about dental bridges, call us at (920) 278-7678 to schedule an appointment.
For Patients • Bay Lakes Center for Complex Dentistry Do you have questions? We might be able to answer them here. We have information on dental forms, testimonials, payments and more. Click here! Bay Lakes Complex Dentistry, 138 Siegler Street, Green Bay WI 54303 - (920) 278-7678 - baylakescomplexdentistry.com - 12/11/2024 - Tags: resources for patients,payments,testimonials green bay,patient information green bay